THE ENVIRONMENT (PROTECTION) ACT, 1986

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of the Act is to implement the decisions of the United Nations Conference on the Human Environments they relate to the protection and improvement of the human environment and the prevention of hazards to human beings, other living creatures, plants and property. The Act is an “umbrella” legislation designed to provide a framework for central government coordination of the activities of various central and state authorities established under previous laws, such as the Water Act and the Air Act.

THE ENVIRONMENT (PROTECTION) ACT, 1986

Short title, extent and commencement.-definitions-power of central government to take measures to protect and improve environment.- appointment of officers and their powers and functions.- power to give directions.-rules to regulate environmental pollution.- persons carrying on industry, operation, etc. not to allow emission or discharge of environmental pollutants in excess of the standards.- persons handling hazardous substances to comply with procedural safeguards.- furnishing of information to authorities and agencies in certain cases.- power of entry and inspection.-power to take sample and procedure to be followed in connection therewith.-environmental laboratories. - reports of government analysts.- penalty for contravention of the provisions of the act and the rules, orders and directions.-offences by companies.- protection of action taken in good faith.- cognizance of offences.- information, reports or returns..- members, officers and employees of the authority constituted under section 3 to be public servants. - effect of other laws.- power to make rules.- rules made under this act to be laid before parliament.